In its report, GAO said a shift towards circularity in textiles could support new jobs and markets linked to repair and recycling, help reduce environmental harm, and influence consumer practices.
At the same time, the watchdog said stakeholders pointed to practical hurdles, notably the absence of nationwide systems and facilities to collect and process textiles, alongside funding limitations.
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GAO identified a “number of policy options” based on a review of relevant literature, site visits and interviews with 49 stakeholders from across the public and private sectors.
Among the options, it highlighted extended producer responsibility (EPR) programmes for textiles, which would make companies responsible for what happens to products after use, alongside other requirements.
Another option flagged by GAO was the use of tax credits linked to textile circularity, designed to “reduce or offset the amount of taxes paid by businesses” when they take steps such as reusing textiles or reducing textile waste.
According to the agency, “som...